Jackie “Jack” Dean Ward
(Born December 17th 1940 – Passed March 4th 2015)
Jack Dean Ward, age 74, a long-time resident of Lincoln, Montana, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday the 4th of March, 2015. Jack was born December 17th 1940 in Long Beach, California to “Whit” and Vina Ward.
Jack attended Browns Military Academy before enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1958 for a four year term, stationed in San Diego, CA. In 1975, Jack married his second wife, Phyllis A. Wells. They had a son, David, and a daughter, Robyn. In 1979 they moved to Lincoln, Montana where he took over Mom’s Drive Inn restaurant, as well as running Jack’s Transmission out of his garage before opening AA Transmission in Helena, Montana in 1987, which he later sold in 1996. Known as the “Rescuer of the Road”, Jack owned and operated AA Towing in Lincoln from 1996 until his death in 2015. For almost 20 years, he never turned down a call for help from anyone at any time. Plagued for years by illness that would keep most people down, Jack rarely missed a call and sacrificed his own health, rest, and time with his family to be at the service of road weary travelers.
Jack worked hard as a provider, most importantly, for his beloved family. Jack was always there to help and make things right for each and every one of us. He acted as a caring father figure to many. He never slowed down, and always found time to give. Jack was one of a kind. His goal in life was to make his family happy, especially the love of his life, Phyllis. In his last days he always made sure to tell her that he loved her and would miss her so much, and made sure to tell his children to please take care of her.
Jack was awarded for his charitable and giving efforts in 2002 when he was presented with the Good Samaritan of the Year Award by the American Red Cross of Montana. He was a “Jack” of all trades, a “fixer” of all things, and most of all one of the finest, most honest men that anyone has ever had the pleasure to know. Very much adored by friends and family, Jack’s gracious spirit will live on forever in our hearts. “Thank you Jack, for everything you did for all of us, for everything you taught us, and the wonderful memories we will always carry with us.”
Jack was a beloved Husband, dedicated Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, and dear Friend. He leaves his loving memories to be cherished by his devoted wife, Phyllis, and children: Jackie, Carrie, David, and Robyn Ward. Jack is survived by his brothers; Jim, Dennis, and Bill. Sisters; Oleta and Barbara, all of Oklahoma. Jack is also survived by numerous grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother Vina, father Whit Ward, sister Wenona, and oldest son Joseph D. Ward.
Out of respect for Jack’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. However, a Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, March 11th at the Lincoln Community Hall in Lincoln, Montana. Memorial contributions are welcomed and should be mailed to The Ward Family, PO Box 131, Lincoln, MT 59639. Or online at: http://www.gofundme.com/o0it20 Please visit below to offer a condolence or to share a memory of Jack.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
3:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 11, 2015
Lincoln Community Hall
Lincoln, Montana
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
3:00 p.m.
Wednesday March 11, 2015
Lincoln Community Hall
Lincoln, Montana
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Emily Rundell says
My heart aches for the Ward’s. Jack was one of a kind,and will be missed by his family and Friends in Lincoln. Though we were not related by blood I like many here in Lincoln feel we were part of Jack’s family.
Marylou Brewster says
With deepest sympathy Phyllis and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Wanda Kelly says
Phyllis and David, I am saddened to hear of Jack’s death. He was so kind to me when I worked for you at the coffee shop. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Kathy Jo Woodley says
Jack was one of the nicest men I’ve ever known-despite his gruff exterior. He always had something sweet or funny to say to make you smile. He always took the time to listen when you had a problem, and offered objective sound advice-whether you wanted to hear it or not . I know he’ll be missed by everyone.
George and Carol Blowars says
Phyllis and family, we are sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Lynn Gluth says
Jack was for sure a special man and very much appreciated & loved by our family. Our own kids were recipients of Jacks kind & giving heart many times over! May the comfort that only God can give comfort all of you as you say goodbye to him..
Patsy Martin says
Thoughts and prayers!
joe youderian says
Jack, was a very special friend and very dear to my heart. He will be very much missed by the community and people that he helped.. The world will be poorer without him. My most heartfelt sympathy to his family.
Alan & Becky Youderian Thurman says
Phyllis and family,
We are sorry to hear this sad news. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sharon Bickel says
So sorry to hear about Jack. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
MYRNA AND BOB ORR says
so sorry to hear about jack,you and your family are in our thoughts
Katherine Boggs Shepherd says
So very very sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you. Wish I were there to do anything I could to help you all in some way. Thinking of y’all
Robyn Ward says
There aren’t enough words to explain the love I have for my father and the kind of man he was. Daddy, I am blessed to have been able to call you my father. I miss you so much my heart constantly aches. I will never forget you papa. You fought so long and so hard and you deserve to rest now. Job well done daddy. Thank you for giving us a wonderful life and a lifetime of memories. Til I see you again, rest easy. I love you! – your babygirl
Dawn Oates says
Thoughts and prayers go out to the family. I am blessed that I can call Jack my friend. Anything I can do for the family please let me know. R.I.P. Jack. You are missed.
Sharlo Leonard says
Phyllis and Family –
Hugs and prayers to each and every one of you. Jack saved me from many a snowy night, and he will be missed.
Teresa Castagne says
You gave me 40 unforgettable years of love and kindness and you taught me numerous life lessons that I rely on everyday. Most importantly, you loved me for 40 years as one of your own children and for that my gratitude is endless. Thank for being my Dad. You have left me with memories that will last a lifetime and I will cherish each and everyone of them as I always will you.
I love you.
Never goodbye Jack. Only farewell for now, because I know that I will see you when I get to the other side.